Honda Civic Ground Clearance: (All Years, Inches & MM!)

The ground clearance of a car is an important consideration for many buyers, especially those who live in areas with rough terrain or frequently encounter speed bumps and potholes.

When it comes to the Honda Civic, a popular choice among compact car enthusiasts, ground clearance is an aspect that potential owners often inquire about.

In this article, we will explore the Honda Civic Ground Clearance throughout the years, providing you with the inches and millimeters measurements.

The ground clearance of the Honda Civic is typically between 5.1 older models and 6.3 inches latest 2022-23 model, depending on the year and model. This measurement determines the distance between the ground and the lowest part of the vehicle. It’s important to consider ground clearance when driving on rough terrain or over speed bumps. Overall, the Honda Civic has a relatively low ground clearance compared to some other vehicles.

Honda Civic Ground Clearance:

Year	Model	Ground Clearance (Inches)	Ground Clearance (MM)
1972-1979	Civic	5.7	145
1980-1983	Civic	5.9	150
1984-1987	Civic	5.8	148
1988-1991	Civic	5.7	145
1992-1995	Civic	5.9	150
1996-2000	Civic	5.7	145
2001-2005	Civic	5.9	150
2006-2010	Civic	170	432
2011-2015	Civic	6.7	170
2016-2021	Civic	6.7	170
2022-Present	Civic	6.7	170

The ground clearance of a Honda Civic is an important factor to consider when evaluating its ability to navigate various road conditions.

Ground clearance refers to the distance between the lowest point on the vehicle’s undercarriage and the ground.

In this section, we will explore the basics of Honda Civic ground clearance and provide measurements in both inches and millimeters for all years.

Why is Ground Clearance Important?

• Ground clearance determines the vehicle’s ability to traverse uneven terrain without scraping or damaging its undercarriage.
• It affects the Civic’s capability to handle speed bumps, potholes, and off-road conditions.
• Ground clearance also plays a role in determining the car’s center of gravity, which can impact stability and handling.

Honda Civic Ground Clearance Measurements:
Below is a table providing the ground clearance measurements for various Honda Civic model years:

Year	Ground Clearance (inches)	Ground Clearance (mm)
2022	6.7	170.18
2021	5.12	130
2020	5.12	130
2019	5.12	130
2018	5.12	130
…	…	…

Please note that these measurements may vary slightly depending on factors such as tire size, suspension modifications, and optional features.

Considerations When Evaluating Ground Clearance:

• Different Honda Civic trim levels may have slightly varying ground clearance due to variations in suspension setup.
• It’s essential to consider the intended use of the vehicle when evaluating whether the ground clearance meets your requirements.
• If you frequently encounter rough road conditions or plan to go off-roading, you might consider a vehicle with higher ground clearance.

The Impact of Ground Clearance on Performance:

Ground clearance is an important consideration when it comes to the performance of a vehicle.

It refers to the distance between the lowest point of the car and the ground. In the case of the Honda Civic, the ground clearance varies depending on the year and model.

Having sufficient ground clearance is crucial for several reasons:

1. Off-road Capability: A higher ground clearance allows the Honda Civic to navigate rough terrains and obstacles more effectively. It reduces the risk of scraping the undercarriage and damaging essential components like the exhaust or suspension.
2. Handling and Stability: Ground clearance plays a role in a vehicle’s stability and handling. A lower center of gravity, which can be achieved with a lower ground clearance, improves the overall stability of the car, especially during cornering. However, extremely low ground clearance may compromise the ability to tackle uneven surfaces.
3. Ride Quality: Ground clearance also affects the ride quality of the Honda Civic. A higher clearance can provide a smoother ride on uneven roads as it reduces the likelihood of the car bottoming out or hitting bumps and potholes.
4. Aerodynamics: Ground clearance influences the aerodynamics of a vehicle. Lower clearance can enhance airflow underneath the car, reducing drag and potentially improving fuel efficiency.

Let’s take a look at the ground clearance measurements (in inches and millimeters) for different Honda Civic models:

Year	Model	Ground Clearance (inches)	Ground Clearance (mm)
2022	LX	6.7-inch	170.18
2021	EX	6.3	160.0
2020	Sport	5.7	144.8
2019	Touring	5.5	139.7

Ground Clearance Comparison Across Honda Civic Models:

When it comes to ground clearance, the Honda Civic has seen some variations across different model years. Let’s take a closer look at how the ground clearance has evolved over time:

• First Generation (1973-1979): The early years of the Honda Civic boasted a ground clearance of around 5.5 inches or 140 mm. While this may seem low by today’s standards, it was fairly typical for compact cars of that era.
• Second Generation (1980-1983): During this period, the ground clearance of the Honda Civic remained relatively consistent, hovering around the 5.5-inch or 140 mm mark. The focus was more on fuel efficiency and aerodynamics rather than off-road capabilities.
• Third Generation (1984-1987): With the introduction of the third-generation Civic, the ground clearance experienced a slight increase, reaching approximately 5.9 inches or 150 mm. This bump in clearance added to the overall comfort and usability of the vehicle.
• Fourth Generation (1988-1991): Ground clearance remained similar to the previous generation, staying at around 5.9 inches or 150 mm. Honda continued to prioritize fuel efficiency and maneuverability over higher ground clearance during this period.
• Fifth Generation (1992-1995): The ground clearance of the fifth-generation Honda Civic saw a slight decrease, dropping back down to around 5.5 inches or 140 mm. Despite this change, the Civic remained a popular choice due to its reliability and affordability.
• Sixth Generation (1996-2000): Ground clearance continued to hover around the 5.5-inch or 140 mm mark during this period. The focus shifted towards improved handling and performance rather than altering the ground clearance substantially.
• Seventh Generation (2001-2005): The ground clearance of the seventh-generation Honda Civic remained consistent with previous models, once again measuring around 5.5 inches or 140 mm. This generation saw advancements in technology and safety features.
• Eighth Generation (2006-2011): Ground clearance remained unchanged, maintaining the 5.5-inch or 140 mm measurement of previous models. The emphasis was on sleek design and fuel efficiency, rather than altering the vehicle’s height.
• Ninth Generation (2012-2015): Similar to the previous generation, the ground clearance of the ninth-generation Honda Civic remained around 5.5 inches or 140 mm. The focus shifted towards improving interior quality and fuel economy.
• Tenth Generation (2016-Present): With the introduction of the current generation, the ground clearance of the Honda Civic increased to approximately 6 inches or 152 mm. This boost in clearance enhances the vehicle’s versatility and provides a smoother ride.

Generation	Ground Clearance (Inches)	Ground Clearance (MM)
First Generation	5.5	140
Second Generation	5.5	140
Third Generation	5.9	150
Fourth Generation	5.9	150
Fifth Generation	5.5	140
Sixth Generation	5.5	140
Seventh Generation	5.5	140
Eighth Generation	5.5	140
Ninth Generation	5.5	140
Tenth Generation	6	152

Factors Affecting Ground Clearance in the Honda Civic:

When it comes to ground clearance in the Honda Civic, there are a few key factors that can affect how high or low the car sits on the road.

Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision when choosing a Honda Civic model that suits your needs.

Let’s dive into the factors that play a role in determining the ground clearance of the Honda Civic.

1. Suspension System: The design and setup of the suspension system greatly influence the ground clearance of a car. The Honda Civic comes with different suspension configurations across its various models and trims. Generally, models with sportier suspensions tend to have lower ground clearance, while those with more comfort-focused suspensions may sit a bit higher.
2. Wheel and Tire Size: The size of the wheels and tires on a Honda Civic can impact its ground clearance. Larger wheels with lower-profile tires may lower the car’s ride height, reducing ground clearance. Conversely, smaller wheels with taller tires can provide more ground clearance. However, it’s important to note that altering the wheel and tire size from the manufacturer’s recommendations can have implications for the car’s overall performance and handling.
3. Body Style and Trim Level: The ground clearance of the Honda Civic can also vary based on its body style and trim level. For instance, the sedan version of the Civic may have slightly higher ground clearance compared to the coupe or hatchback variants. Additionally, certain trims, such as the Civic Type R or sport-oriented models, may have lower ground clearance due to their aggressive styling and performance-oriented setups.
4. Loaded Weight: The amount of weight inside the car can cause the suspension to compress, leading to a slight decrease in ground clearance. If you frequently carry heavy loads or have multiple passengers, it’s worth considering how this may affect the car’s ground clearance.

To get a better idea of the ground clearance specifications across different Honda Civic models and years, take a look at the table below:

Model	Ground Clearance (inches)	Ground Clearance (mm)
2022 Sedan	5.1	129
2022 Hatchback	5.6	142
2022 Type R	4.5	114

Improving Ground Clearance in the Honda Civic:

If you own a Honda Civic and find that the ground clearance is not satisfactory for your needs, there are a few steps you can take to improve it.

Whether you encounter rough terrain or want to enhance the sporty look of your car, here are some options to consider:

1. Suspension Upgrades:

Upgrading your suspension can be an effective way to increase ground clearance in your Honda Civic.

These modifications can provide better shock absorption and prevent your vehicle from bottoming out on uneven surfaces. Here are a few suspension upgrades to consider:

• Installing taller springs or coilovers can give your Civic a higher ride height.
• Upgrading to adjustable dampers allows you to fine-tune your suspension settings for a balance between comfort and ground clearance.
• Adding strut tower braces enhances the rigidity of the suspension system, improving handling and stability.

2. Larger Wheels and Tires:

Opting for larger wheels and tires not only adds a stylish touch to your Honda Civic but can also increase ground clearance. Here’s how:

• Choose tires with a taller sidewall to improve the overall diameter, which effectively raises your vehicle.
• Select wheels with a higher offset to push them outwards, creating more space between the ground and the undercarriage.

3. Skid Plates and Underbody Protection:

To protect the vulnerable underside of your Honda Civic and provide some added ground clearance, you can install skid plates or underbody protection.

These accessories shield important components from damage when driving over rough terrain or encountering obstacles.

4. Air Suspension Systems:

If you’re looking for maximum flexibility in adjusting your ground clearance, air suspension systems are worth considering.

These systems allow you to raise or lower your vehicle with the touch of a button, giving you control over the ride height in various driving conditions.

Remember, when modifying your Honda Civic’s ground clearance, it’s essential to consult with professionals who specialize in automotive modifications.

They can guide you in choosing the right upgrades and ensure proper installation.

Now that you have an idea of how to improve your Honda Civic’s ground clearance, you can tailor it to your needs and preferences. Enjoy a smoother ride and tackle obstacles with confidence!